Maj.-Gen. Rabe Abubakar Batsari, retired Director of Defence Information, and his wife were abducted by armed men on the Marabar Musawa–Kafinsoli road in Matazu Local Government Area, Katsina State. The attack occurred when gunmen blocked their vehicle and opened fire before taking the couple into a nearby forest. The bandit leader, identified as Kachallah Muhammad, contacted the family on Monday, less than 48 hours after the abduction. He demanded the release of detained associates held by security agencies in exchange for the couple, rejecting a cash ransom.

During the contact, the retired general spoke briefly and confirmed that he and his wife were in stable condition. A senior official in Batsari Local Government acknowledged knowledge of the ongoing negotiations. Family member Mariya Ibrahim said the couple was travelling to Katsina for a wedding ceremony when they were taken. She urged for swift action, stating, "He served this country with dedication and deserves protection even in retirement. We want him and his wife rescued unharmed."

Residents expressed alarm over the worsening security situation in the North-West, noting that the abduction of a former high-ranking military officer signals escalating lawlessness. No official statement has been issued by the Katsina State Police Command or military authorities regarding the incident or any rescue operations. The bandits remain in control of the couple as of press time.

💡 NaijaBuzz Take

A former military spokesperson is now dependent on negotiations led by others, after being taken by bandits who demand the release of detainees to free him. The group specifically rejected money, indicating a strategic aim beyond financial gain. This sets a precedent where abductors dictate terms to the state using former security officials as leverage. Nigerians now see that even those who once shaped military narratives are vulnerable to the same forces they once confronted.

⚖️ NaijaBuzz Take is AI-assisted editorial opinion. All persons mentioned are presumed innocent until proven guilty. Full disclaimer →